A modified therapeutic option for a long lasting success in the treatment of genital lymphedema

In cases of chronic genital lymphedema with an excessive proliferation of scrotal or labial tissue, lymph cysts, and fistulae, complex decongestive therapy (CDT) alone is not enough. After decongestion has been achieved by CDT, a major reconstructive procedure followed by a renewed phase of CDT is required. We report on our good cosmetic and functional long-time results achieved in 24 patients suffering from lymphedema of the genitalia treated by this combination of conservative CDT and surgery. In 17 male patients (16 primary and one secondary lymphedema), reduction of the scrotum was performed. Bilateral reduction of the labia was carried out in seven female patients (five secondary and two primary lymphedema). The mean follow-up was 67.8 months (36–84 months). The etiology of the lymphedema had no effect on the operation procedure or the operative outcome.